Burger enthusiasts in Windsor and Essex County have a delicious opportunity to support local restaurants and community initiatives this winter. The Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland has launched its highly anticipated fourth annual Burger Battle, and early interest has already shattered expectations.
Record-Breaking Demand for a Tasty Deal
Organizers report that sales for the event's passport have roughly doubled compared to last year. The $20 passport unlocks a two-for-one burger and fries deal at 17 participating restaurants across the region. Demand was so high that the initial run of 1,500 passports sold out by Christmas, forcing a reprint.
Ann Hetherington, the chair of the Burger Battle, expressed her surprise at the surge in popularity. "It's grown in the last four years, and this particular year has really surpassed any of our expectations," Hetherington told the Windsor Star. "This will be about double what we sold last year."
Boosting Business and Community Funding
The event serves a dual purpose: it's a major fundraiser for Rotary Club community projects and a vital boost for local restaurants during the traditionally slow season from January through March. Last year, the Burger Battle netted approximately $15,000. This year, with the increased participation, organizers have set an ambitious goal of raising between $25,000 and $27,000.
"The restaurants love this because it helps increase their business in the slower months of January, February and March," Hetherington explained. "And then the customer who buys the passport gets an incredible deal. Word is out there, and people are realizing what a great deal it is."
New Categories and How to Vote
The competition, which launched on January 5, 2026, and runs until March 26, 2026, features some exciting changes. While Joe Schmoe's in LaSalle has claimed the title of best burger for the past two years, new voting categories have been introduced to widen the field.
Participants can now cast votes online using a QR code on their passport, directing them to the Rotary Club's website. Voters will choose winners in three distinct categories:
- Best burger in Windsor/Tecumseh/LaSalle
- Best burger in Essex County
- Best fries in Windsor-Essex
Every vote submitted also enters the participant into a draw to win one of several $25 gift cards to participating restaurants. This adds an extra incentive for the community to have their say in crowning the region's top burger and fries.
For more information, including how to purchase a passport and a full list of participating restaurant locations, residents can visit roselandrotary.com.
